Table Otto, known in Al Ain for its French-Italian fusion menu combined with a Mediterranean flair, is opening its newest dining venture - a patio restaurant perched on top of AlJimi Mall. This new patio experience promises 360° views of the Al Ain skyline with an exclusive curated menu featuring French, Italian, and Mediterranean recipes, such as Avocado Carpaccio, Mini Black Quesadillas and Winter Grilled Corn Cob Salad. The patio menu also includes favourites from their regular menu, such as Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza, Texas Toast Beef Bites and the Greek Salad on Roasted Eggplant. Their dessert menu is set to please chocolate lovers with its latest addition of Oven Baked Chocolopita. For more information, please visit @tableotto.ae on Instagram

Twin brothers James and Oliver Phelps played the Weasley twins in the film adaptations of the Harry Potter book series by J.K. Rowling. James and Oliver will join the convention on Saturday February 10th and Sunday February 11th. The actors rose to fame after their memorable performance in the Harry Potter film series, roles which they earned after allegedly skipping school to audition for the first Harry Potter film. The Phelps twins became quite popular with the fans throughout the franchise due to their quirkiness and fun-studded scenes, as they brought both Fred and George to life with their pranks, adventures and even their love for Quidditch. Star-studded lineup The Phelps brothers will be part of an all-star celebrity guest line-up of the 2024 edition of Middle East Film & Comic Con – joining Mexican actor Iñaki Godoy, The Straw Hat Pirates' Captain, Monkey D. Luffy, from Netflix's Live Action hit series, One Piece; Frank Welker, the voice behind Transformers’ Megatron, Garfield and Scooby Doo; Peter Cullen, the voice actor behind Optimus Prime, the protagonist of Transformers; Temuera Morrison, the Star Wars icon who has played both Boba Fett and Jango Fett; and Troy Baker, the American voice actor and musician, best known for his role as Joel in The Last of Us video game. The line-up will also include comic creators Mark Brooks, Carlo Pagulayan, Stephen Segovia, and Steve McNiven. MEFCC In its 12th of celebrating film, TV, sci-fi, anime, manga, gaming, comics and collectibles, the convention is held in strategic partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) at ADNEC, from February 9th-11th. In 2024, you'll find attractions ranging from: Meet the Stars - meet your favourite celebrities from the big screen Comic Creators Club - get commissions Artist Alley - features local and regional emerging and established artists showcasing and selling their latest work Gaming Arena - level up and battle it out in various tournaments and daily challenges Main Stage - will host celebrity panels, interviews, community sessions and fan screenings Festival Plaza - enjoy live entertainment, music, activities, and F&B Japanese Village - bringing a taste of Japan to Abu Dhabi with traditional experiences including Yukata tryouts, origami, calligraphy and live performances. To find out more about MEFCC and to purchase tickets now, visit www.mefcc.com and follow @mefcc to stay connected.

Raducanu awarded a wildcard, joining Ons Jabeur and Beatriz Haddad Maia as confirmed entrants for February’s event British tennis star Emma Raducanu will compete at the second edition of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open next month, with the 2021 Grand Slam winner the latest player confirmed to be participating in the WTA 500 event, ahead of the main draw entry list being announced on Tuesday January 9. The competition takes place at the International Tennis Centre at Zayed Sports City, on February 3-11, and is set to feature some of the world’s best female tennis players with Raducanu, who enters as a wildcard, joining fan favourite, Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur and World No. 11, Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia as confirmed participants. Raducanu rose to prominence in 2021 when she defied the odds to win the US Open at the age of 18 having entered the main draw as a qualifier, eventually defeating Canada’s Leylah Fernandez in the final. The victory ensured Raducanu became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam tournament in the Open Era, while the fact she secured the title without dropping a single set throughout the competition made her achievement even more remarkable. Raducanu will be part of a 28-player field competing at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, with 18 direct acceptances through the entry list and six places available through qualification. There are also four wildcard entrants, which include the Kent-born star. To purchase tickets for the tournament, visit www.mubadalaabudhabiopen.com/tickets/

Looking for a new spot for food in the capital? Check out our round up of foodie newness in Abu Dhabi. Al Safadi Al Qana The popular family-owned, Lebanese restaurant has opened its first Abu Dhabi branch in the exciting Al Qana district. The new-to-the-capital restaurant will feature a range of Lebanese dishes that diners in Dubai have come to love. Dishes will also be specially curated on a monthly and seasonal basis. The location also features lovely views and a dedicated shisha area. Open Daily from 9am-1am. For more information, bookings and reservations visit https://alsafadi.ae/ or follow on Instagram: @alsafadirestaurants Pachamama by Eber Villalobos Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers Explore Peruvian cuisine at the latest pop-up venue at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers named after Mother Earth. Created by Chef Eber Villalobos, the menu has been specially curated to highlight his Peruvian heritage and the cooking techniques passed down from his mother. The pop-up will be open through March 9th with delectable dishes including tacos with plantain tortillas, ceverchi and empanadas. Stop by on Christmas for a special brunch starting from AED 345 and on New Year’s starting from AED 480. Open Tuesday - Sunday from 7am-12pm until March 9th For more information, bookings and reservations, call 02 811 5555 Éla Éla Yas Marina The new Yas Marina restaurant features a seasonal menu with flavours from Greece and Crete. With a range of small plates and entrees, every guest is sure to find something they’ll love. This season’s menu includes classics like Spanakopita and mezze bites with entrees like lamb shoulder and grilled seabream. Round out your visit with a taste of their baklava ice cream and a range of summer-inspired beverages. Open daily 5pm-12am For booking and reservations, call 056 603 7500 or visit https://elaela.ae/ Mr. Moto Yas Marina This new culinary experience features a range of authentic Japenese dishes as well as desserts. The new restaurant also has live DJs setting the mood and beverages inspired by Japanese and American classics. Open daily from 5pm-2am For booking and reservations, call 056 603 7600 or visit https://mrmoto.ae/ Mika Yas Marina Mika features Mediterranean cuisine from generous main course to shareable tapas-style dishes. The restaurant features regular brunch and sunset specials with live DJs. Open daily from 12pm-12am (1am on weekends) For more information, bookings and reservations, call 05 643 31422

The launch of Saadiyat Nights has already put global superstars such as Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocceli on the line-up and the new three-month open-air musical event series has announced that best-selling artist Sting will perform on 3 February and Lebanese icon Magida Al Roumi on 10 February. Sting Renowned British singer-songwriter Sting is known for captivating audiences worldwide, and Abu Dhabi attendees can look forward to a mesmerising performance featuring global hits such as "Englishman in New York" and "Desert Rose". Magida El Roumi Lebanese legend Magida El Roumi, a multi-award-winning musician, is poised to share her message of transformative power of music with Abu Dhabi audiences. El Room is poised to bring an enchanting evening showcasing her extraordinary vocal talent. Saadiyat Nights At every gig there will be a plethora of dining options including casual dining at Aptitude and Home Bakery; hot beverages at Espresso Lab and To the Moon & Back; international cuisine excellence at the Saadiyat Nights restaurant; and inventive mixed beverages from Iris. Tickets start from AED 200 and can be purchased from ticketmaster.ae. Click here for parking and taxi info

Global singer and superstar, Mariah Carey is set to make to the stage on Saturday 6 January 2024 at Saadiyat Nights. Here's what we know so far: Date: 6th January 2024 Doors open: 17:00 Venue: Saadiyat Nights Location: Google maps link here Food & Beverage options at the location: Casual dining at Aptitude & Home Bakery Hot beverages at: Espresso Lab To the Moon & Back International cuisine at the Saadiyat Nights restaurant Mixed beverages from Iris Parking options: Google Map links Suite Parking - https://maps.app.goo.gl/WrvtTpAqqPiW3fEc6 Diamond Parking - https://maps.app.goo.gl/BDTpBrVT5J6MFyVZ8 Platinum Parking - https://maps.app.goo.gl/KCN7XJZgchdGuroh7 P1 General Parking A - https://maps.app.goo.gl/DgVjKc5DCYeQx9p18 P1 General Parking B - https://maps.app.goo.gl/SGNMsmXJSCGa4ywa6 P2 General Parking A - https://maps.app.goo.gl/k9jL5ALRgdTayo5a7 P2 General Parking B - https://maps.app.goo.gl/VqmomQMcsFF71bMJ9 P3 General Parking - https://maps.app.goo.gl/dCP7JatTKfRF2r8aA People Of Determination (POD) Parking - https://maps.app.goo.gl/HXfW4Hvkfmp9ZZRDA Taxi Pickup / Drop-off - https://maps.app.goo.gl/U57KDGP94w7vpJEo8 ****Stay tuned for performance times****

With just under one month to go until the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, Beatriz Haddad Maia, a semi-finalist at last year’s tournament, is the latest player confirmed to be playing at the event, which takes place on 3-11 February at the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City. Brazilian Haddad Maia, who is currently 11th in the WTA rankings, joins Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur as confirmed entrants for the competition, with more big names to be announced over the coming weeks. Haddad Maia, 27, produced a string of impressive performances during last year’s inaugural Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, defeating the likes of Marie Bouzkova, Yulia Putintseva and Elena Rybakina en route to the semi-finals, where she was beaten by eventual winner Bencic. She also reached the semi-finals of last year’s French Open, where once again she was beaten by the eventual winner of the tournament, Iga Swiatek. Fun for all the Family Sunday 4 February has been confirmed as Kids Day at the tournament, where families can enjoy a Fan Village featuring a packed entertainment schedule, while Ladies Day will take place on Tuesday February 6th, with wellness-themed activations and spot prizes up for grabs. Additionally, CRANK will be partnering with the tournament to deliver their iconic Ride class in the Fan Village across the opening weekend and Ladies Day, which will also feature a carefully created female-focused playlist. To purchase tickets for the tournament, visit www.mubadalaabudhabiopen.com/tickets/

Take That to feature on opening day of Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix presented by Abu Dhabi Sports Council, January 13, 2024 Global music superstars Take That will take to the stage for a special Saturday race day performance as part of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix presented by Abu Dhabi Sports Council. The Back For Good trio will come to the UAE and perform a packed set of hits for fans upon the conclusion of the first day of SailGP’s high speed racing at Mina Zayed on January 13, 2024. Take That’s appearance in Abu Dhabi is a historic moment for SailGP – as it will be the first time the global league has combined its high-speed racing action with live music entertainment to create a truly memorable fan experience. Gary Barlow, Howard Donald and Mark Owen return to the UAE, with huge hits like Shine, Relight My Fire and Rule The World. Tickets for Take That’s performance are on sale now at SailGP.com/AbuDhabi. Both the Waterfront Grandstand and Premier Waterfront Grandstand tickets include access to the special Take That performance upon the conclusion of the opening day of racing on 13 January 2024. Further music acts and entertainment across the race weekend, including the final day on January 14, will be announced shortly. For all the details and to get tickets, visit SailGP.com/AbuDhabi.

Magical mezze and so much more at some of the capital’s best Arabic eateries. Beirut Sur Mer - Marsha Al Saadiyat You’ll find this much-loved outlet at the stunning Mamsha beach on Saadiyat Island. Beirut Sur Mer is a Lebanese restaurant that boasts a contemporary yet eclectic ambiance, and is open all day, meaning you can try their extensive breakfast menu as well as its substantial and varied list of lunch and dinner dishes. Not surprisingly, mezze is a big deal here, but the menu doesn’t stop there. Highlights include grilled halloumi with sweet and sour figs, poached eggs on spiced hash brown halloumi with avocado with zaatar avocado dip, plus slow-braised octopus chunks with zereshk. The minced pumpkin fried dumplings with vegetables and pomegranate molasses also bring the wow factor, as does the garlic sautéed beef cubes. The restaurant, which serves alcohol, earned recognition in 2022 from the Michelin Guide, which lauded its commitment to good quality, value cooking. Beirut Sur Mer has become a noteworthy dining destination in the nation’s capital, and should be on the visit list of residents and tourists alike. https://beirutsurmer.com/ Grand Beirut - Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island Under the management umbrella of the team behind Beirut Sur Mer, this eatery, located in both Al Qana and Galleria Mall, offers a menu suited to big family visits and communal dining. In fact, the Lebanese grub on offer is both plentiful and tasty, with its owners often banging the drum about their commitment to quality ingredients. The eatery provides an authentic Lebanese and Mediterranean culinary experience, boasting an extensive menu featuring a variety of hot and cold mezze alongside tlameh. Signature dishes include hummus Beiruti, halloumi ithmaliyeh, and a moreish batata bil belfol. Adding to the repertoire are the savory spinach fatayer, offering a delightful twist, and the refreshing quinoa with chickpeas, prawns, and avocado is an enticingly fresh option. Their kunafa is also a winner. Visit here if you want a lively setting reminiscent of Levantine streets, friendly service and decent quality dishes. https://www.instagram.com/grandbeirutuae Byblos Sur Mer - Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Byblos Sur Mer has been a favourite in Abu Dhabi for several years now – and the critics agree. The restaurant has garnered recognition from Time Out and What's On in the UAE, solidifying its status as a noteworthy establishment. This Lebanese outlet is nestled in a contemporary, two-level dining space, where you can enjoy authentic grilled meats and a diverse selection of mezze platters. Guests laud Byblos Sur Mer for its stylish décor and live entertainment, which helps to create a jovial, relaxed and friendly ambiance. The terrace offers a picturesque view of the marina around the Intercontinental Hotel, and shisha can be ordered here. The menu features standout dishes including a super smooth garlic hummus, shanklish cheese mixed with tomato, onion, and parsley, plus  lamb sausages with oriental spices and lime, and a delightful mixed grill platter encompassing taouk, lamb, tikka, kofta, and more. Another winning Kunafa dessert in the capital, this one is hailed as one of the best in the city. https://abudhabi.intercontinental.com/byblos-sur-mer Li Beirut - Conrad at Etihad Towers An upmarket Lebanese restaurant set in an intricately designed space which delivers a mix of traditional and contemporary Levant dishes with some European influences thrown in for good measure. The restaurant's appeal lies in its modern styling, marina views, and Beirut-inspired decor, which contribute to the overall ambiance. Dishes of note include the Kunafa Wrapped Tiger Prawns, Cauliflower three Different Ways, and a variety of mezza options, including vine leaves and Baba Ghanouj. The terrace provides you with tranquil views of the Arabian Gulf. Make sure you leave some room for the dessert options including Honey Fudge and Umm Ali, among other favourites from the region. https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/auhetci-conrad-abu-dhabi-etihad-towers/dining/li-beirut/ Mijana - Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal Located inside the Ritz-Carlton hotel, Mijana offers traditional Lebanese cuisine against an elegant backdrop. This contemporary Arabic restaurant also regularly offers regular live music, shisha, and traditional tea. Named after the poetic lyrics that initiate Lebanese folk songs, Mijana blends old and new, embodying the theatrical side of contemporary Arabic cuisine. Inside you'll find frosted glass that surrounds the chefs, adding a touch of mystery as they prepare dishes and they offer events such as family nights and special seafood nights. The menu encompasses an extensive cold mezze selection, featuring kibbeh and hummus, warm mezze dishes, classic shawarmas, and notable mains like Kibbah Labaniyaeh. Local specialties include the Lamb Ouzi, while the grill offers juicy meat options and seafood delicacies like the Mashawee Bahreeh. Still got room for dessert? You can choose from a selection of Arabic sweets or zesty sorbets. https://www.morecravings.com/en/venues/mijana

A mobile app, delivery within 30 minutes, and a wide range of liquor products is what CityDrinks has in store for you. If you are an Abu Dhabi resident, you can order drinks, using the CityDrinks app or website, and get them delivered straight to your doorstep. And that's not all, CityDrinks also has a range of glassware, bar accessories, gourmet snacks, and cured meat, for the best at-home party. CityDrinks operates from 9am to 12am, and offers swift delivery throughout Abu Dhabi with no minimum order requirement - but order over AED 50 and you'll get free delivery. And there is even better news for those living in Khalifa City and Yas Island, because you can expect your orders to arrive within 30 minutes! Those living outside these areas can anticipate delivery within two to three hours. CityDrinks mobile app is available to download from Apple Store or Google Play. For more information, visit https://citydrinks.com/ or follow CityDrinks on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/citydrinksuae.

Known for being closed on Mondays, Louvre Abu Dhabi has announced that it will remain open on Monday 1 January 2024, to commemorate the start of the new year. The capital's iconic museum located on Saadiyat Island, will give residents and tourists the opportunity to start 2024 surrounded by inspiring works of art from various cultures and time periods. Check out their latest exhibitions such as: Cartier, Islamic Inspiration and Modern Design Letters of Light Transparencies For more information and bookings, visit Louvre Abu Dhabi’s website.

MOTN Festival If you haven’t had a chance yet, be sure to discover thrills in the desert and among the city lights with this year’s expansive MOTN festival. The festival features carnival rides, art installations, shopping experiences, food and live performances on 31 December. The festival will mark its final night and New Year’s Eve with a special performance by Egyptian pop sensation Tamer Hosny on the Corniche. Where: Abu Dhabi Corniche When: Until 31 December Details: www.motn.ae Liwa Festival Make a trip to the heart of the desert to experience Liwa Festival before it ends on 31 December. The festival offers a range of motorsports and outdoor activities along with food, shopping and entertainment. Divided into six zones, Liwa Festival has experiences for the whole family and New Year’s Eve will feature live concerts. Where: Liwa Desert When: Until 31 December Details: www.liwavillage.ae/experience Rixos Saadiyat Looking for a glamorous New Year’s celebration? Head over to Rixos Premium on Saadiyat for a night filled with disco, food, and entertainment. The festivities will start with a cocktail party in the hotel lobby with live music, followed by a gala dinner. The feast will be accompanied by dancers and further live music including a performance by Rahj Mason. Opt for the VIP Lounge experience to have an extra level of indulgence with a private butler service and extra amenities. Can’t leave your little ones at home? The Rixy Kids Club has a lineup of entertainment and activities planned just for your kiddos. The program will include magic shows, balloon bending, inflatable thrills, music and dance shows, and a parade of beloved cartoon characters. Your kids’ evening will include their own mini disco too! Where: Rixos Premium Saadiyat When: 31 December Cost: VIP Package, AED 5,000 per person Regular Package, AED 2,500 For reservations, call +971 02 492 2222 or +971 52 274 0020 Mariah Carey & Saadiyat Nights Don’t worry, your New Year celebrations don’t have to end on the first! Start your year with incredible performances by superstars like Mariah Carey, GooGoosh and Andrea Bocelli starting 6 January. More Arab performers are set to be announced but you can book your tickets now. Where: Saadiyat Island When: Starting January 6 Cost: Starting from AED 200 Book tickets now at ticketmaster.ae New Year's Eve Gala Dinner at Bab Al Qasr Beach Garden Indulge in the flavors of the world with the international gala dinner buffet at Bab Al Qasr Beach Garden on the 31st of December from 7:00 pm to 12:00 am, while enjoying live entertainment that includes a DJ, singer, and belly dancer. Prices range from AED 599 to AED 799 per person, including free-flowing sparkling, spirits, house red & white wine, house beer, and cocktails. Children aged 5 to 12 can join for AED 299 per person, and it's complimentary for children below 5 years old. Where: Bab Al Qasr Beach Garden When: 31 December Cost: From AED 599 For reservations, call +971 2 205 3032 or +971 56 992 2078 Email: restaurants@babalqasr.com